Choosing a Dog

Having gotten animals from reputable and responsible breeders as well as rescues, I feel that people in both areas should be more than honest when trying to match a dog to you. If they seem too anxious to make that sale or adoption, I would consider strongly going elsewhere.

Temperaments

Has there been any temperament testing to the puppies or dogs? If you are a quite, laid back person, it could be tough to be matched with an outgoing, dominant puppy. If you are looking for a dog to compete with in sports, that quiet, shy dog would probably not work out well. A good breeder or rescue will screen the puppies or dogs to make the best match possible.

Your Gut

What feeling do you get about where you are looking to get your pet – be it a reputable and responsible breeder or a rescue? And when considering a rescue, many are tempted to rescue that hardship case. Use your brain. Having rescued hardship cases I can personally say it is a HUGE amount of dedication, work and money. Multiple trips to vets, medications, worries about potential behavior issues and how to deal with them, time, effort and money can easily run into the thousands before you realize it.

It is noble to wish to help all the hardship cases out there. But in reality, can you devote the time and effort? Many hardship cases end right back in rescue. Use your brain as well as your heart.

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